This thesis presents the outcome of investigations undertaken in the field of terrestrial spectral solar irradiance characterisation and its impact on photovoltaics. Spectral irradiance has not previously been widely researched in the context of photovoltaic applications. Long-term, natural environment spectral irradiance observations are practically non-existent with availability very limited in terms of covered period, temporal resolution and site location. The work presented concentrates on four major aspects of spectral irradiance:
spectroradiometer calibration
spectral irradiance calibration transfer standards
natural spectral irradiance variability and its impact on photovoltaic device efficiency
impact of reference sensor spectral mismatch on accuracy of reference irradiance measurements

Description:

A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough University.